Based on the results of the most recent inspections, vehicles weighing more than 15 tons are banned from using the 96th Street Bridge in Stone Harbor, Cape May County announced Monday.
Inspections have determined that the bridge can no longer “reliably carry” vehicles heavier than that weight without possibly “overstressing” the structure, the county said in a press release.
The 96th Street Bridge, which connects Stone Harbor with Middle Township, is among the bridges that are subject to more frequent inspections due to the age of the bascule span.
The bascule span, which is the movable section commonly known as the draw bridge, was constructed in 1939 and still contains many of the original steel components. Some of the main supporting members are over 80 years old, according to the county.
“The coastal environment and constant vehicular traffic through the years have had an adverse effect on the condition of these bridge members,” the press release said.
